Perez tests for Ferrari

Sauber driver Sergio Perez has recently held a test session for Ferrari.

The Mexican driver joined Ferrari’s Driver Academy programme this season and tested a 2009 Ferrari at Fiorano.

Sauber have tried to play down the move saying that it had always been planned as part of the Driver Academy programme and does not indicate that he could be in line for a move to Ferrari.

Sauber’s managing director Monisha Kaltenborn told Autosport Magazine that the Perez’s test with Ferrari was just: ‘an integrated part of the [FDA – Ferrari’s Driver Academy] activities, so we knew at some point it would come up’.

He continued to play down the test by adding: ‘The academy is meant for drivers who should go into Formula 1, and he is already in Formula 1, so I think you have to put that in the right perspective.

‘There are no further arrangements regarding that. As we understand it, there is one test. The programme is not developed with us. We make sure that none of these activities conflict with any of our activities, and Ferrari respects that. We found a time when we could do his test and that’s it.’

The test which took place between the Italian and Singapore Grands Prix’s has obviously put the rumour mill into over-drive.

With former two-time Formula One champion Fernando Alonso sitting pretty on a long-term contract and appearing to have the team built around him, the media have often linked Felipe Massa with the exit door, despite Ferrari often stating his drive is safe for next season.

The Brazilian driver has never really returned to his former pace and performance following his severe head injury and many believe it is just a matter of time before he leaves the team.